Binoculars with digital camera attached.

I have just discovered that Pentax has released a pair of binoculars with a digital camera attached. They are calling them the PENTAX DIGIBINO DB100. According to the press release I have pasted below it allows you to view distant images clearly with 7X magnification, and gives you the revolutionary ability to capture what you see with high-level digital precision. Ideal for birdwatchers, outdoorsman, sportsfans or anyone looking to capture images electronically that are normally seen with a pair of binoculars.

In focusing, the DIGIBINO DB100 surpasses the capabilities of a conventional camera. It achieves fast focus, even when using super telephoto settings, and it achieves a level of precision equal to conventional binoculars. The DIGIBINO DB100 provides more options after images have been captured, with the convenience of video output and versatile USB compatibility.

Major features of the DIGIBINO DB100:

In focusing, the DIGIBINO DB100 surpasses the capabilities of a conventional camera. It achieves fast focus, even when using super telephoto settings, and it achieves a level of precision equal to conventional binoculars. The DIGIBINO DB100 provides more options after images have been captured, with the convenience of video output and versatile USB compatibility.

* The DIGIBINO DB100 is the world?s first pair of CCD digital binoculars equipped with an LCD

monitor.

Major features of the DIGIBINO DB100:

The power of 800,000 pixels and 7X magnification

With a 1/3 inch progressive CCD and 800,000 pixels, the DIGIBINO DB100 captures distant objects with precision. Such imaging excellence also means that images can later be enlarged while still retaining impressive clarity. PENTAX advanced digital technology also allows the DIGIBINO DB100 to achieve impressive 7X magnification equivalent to a 280mm lens in 35mm format.

Progressive CCD

The DIGIBINO DB100 is equipped with a progressive CCD, which allows high-speed shutter release that can be advantageous when capturing fast-moving subjects.

Convenient Flash memory

With 16MB of built-in Flash memory, the DIGIBINO DB100 is capable of recording and storing up to 100 pictures in Fine mode. Capacity of this kind has done away with the need for external memory.

Space-efficient JPEG format imaging

All images can be easily stored as JPEG files ? a space-efficient format that retains a high level of image quality and is compatible with a wide range of computer applications.

Precision 1.6 inch LCD panel

The DIGIBINO DB100 offers traditional binocular-style viewing. It also incorporates a handy 1.6 inch LCD panel, which allows one clear view of your subject and assists when composing shots for recording.

An impressive range of shutter speeds from 1/8000 - 1/30 sec.

The DIGIBINO DB100 is exceptionally useful in a variety of situations. For those wishing to view and record distant scenery or low-light subjects, exposure speeds as slow as 1/30 sec. offer high-level versatility. For those wishing to capture wildlife and other moving subjects, the DIGIBINO DB100 also has shutter speeds up to 1/8000 sec.

The simplicity and versatility of USB connectivity

USB compatibility gives the DIGIBINO DB100 maximum versatility. It allows you to import recorded images with ease into a range of popular computer applications, or even send shots effortlessly via e-mail.

AV output adds more options for display

Recorded images can be easily viewed at any time on the 1.6 inch LCD screen. For additional versatility, the DB100 can also be connected to a TV.

Manual focus for greater control

Manual focus allows greater control and makes it easy to place greater emphasis on any subject within the field of view. For added convenience, focal adjustment on the binoculars is linked with that of the camera.

Compatible with AA and CR-V3 batteries

The DIGIBINO DB100 can be powered by two AA size lithium, or AA size nickel-hydride batteries. It is also compatible with lithium CR-V3 batteries for further convenience. Such battery sizes are available virtually anywhere, making the DIGIBINO DB100 ideal for use when traveling.

Program auto exposure control

For additional ease of use, the DIGIBINO DB100 offers auto exposure. Not only does this achieve combinations of aperture and shutter that fit the subject, it also gives the user the freedom to concentrate on viewing and composition.

Fully automatic TTL White Balance

Fully automatic, through the lens White Balance means that the DIGIBINO DB100 is not confined to use outdoors. In fact, this additional advantage means that a natural range of colors can be preserved when shooting in various different kinds of light.

Capture the action with five frames per second shooting up to a maximum of ten frames

The DIGIBINO DB100 is invaluable for the wildlife enthusiast, the sports spectator, or indeed anyone wishing to capture distant action. It even offers continuous shooting of up to ten frames at five frames per second, allowing you to capture instances of action, frame by frame.

A minimum focusing distance of just two meters

The DIGIBINO DB100 is excellent for viewing and recording distant scenes and action. Its capabilities, however, are appreciated up close as well with the viewing and capture of subjects just two meters away.